If you have a sweet tooth and a love for tropical flavors, you absolutely cannot miss out on this incredible Tom Cruise Cake (White Chocolate Coconut Bundt Cake) Recipe. This cake perfectly balances the creamy richness of white chocolate with the fresh, nutty crunch of toasted coconut, all nestled in a moist, tender Bundt cake that melts in your mouth. Every slice is a delightful celebration of texture and flavor, making this dessert a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any special occasion or cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking a show-stopping Tom Cruise Cake (White Chocolate Coconut Bundt Cake) Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from lending moisture and richness to enhancing the tropical coconut flavor and luscious frosting.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s sturdy yet tender structure.
- 1 (3.4-oz) package instant coconut cream pudding: Adds extra coconut sweetness and moisture.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all flavors.
- ¼ tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1½ cups butter (room temperature, 3 sticks): Contributes rich flavor and tenderness.
- 2¾ cup sugar: Sweetens the batter and creates a tender crumb.
- 6 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s overall flavor profile.
- 1 Tbsp coconut extract: Intensifies that signature coconut aroma and taste.
- 1 (8-oz) container sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle tang.
- 1 (4-oz) white chocolate bar, finely chopped: Melts into sweet pockets of creamy goodness.
- ½ cup butter (softened): For the rich cream cheese frosting base.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese: Creates a smooth, tangy frosting that complements the cake perfectly.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth to the frosting’s flavor.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
- 1 (7-oz) package shredded coconut, toasted: Adds a crunchy, aromatic finishing touch.
How to Make Tom Cruise Cake (White Chocolate Coconut Bundt Cake) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Bundt Pan and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 325ºF, ensuring it’s perfectly ready to bake your cake to golden perfection. Butter and flour a 15-cup Bundt pan to prevent sticking and help your cake release easily later. Meanwhile, sift together the flour, salt, and baking soda to evenly distribute the leavening agents, guaranteeing a tender, uniform crumb in your cake.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Flavors
Next up, cream together the butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and coconut extract for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light and pale yellow. This step is key—it whips air into the batter which contributes to the cake’s light texture. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg fully incorporates before adding the next. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides so everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Add Pudding and Alternate Dry Ingredients with Sour Cream
Stir in the instant coconut cream pudding mix to infuse the batter with extra coconut flavor and moisture. Lower the mixer speed and gently add the sifted flour mixture and sour cream alternately, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This delicate mixing method keeps the batter light yet properly combined. Finally, fold in the finely chopped white chocolate by hand so those creamy bits are nestled throughout the cake.
Step 4: Bake the Cake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes. If your cake starts browning too much on top, lightly tent it with aluminum foil. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, promising a perfectly cooked inside.
Step 5: Cool and Frost the Cake
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes to set, then carefully invert it onto the rack and cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare your frosting by beating together softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy and smooth. Spread this luscious cream cheese frosting over the top of your cooled cake and then press the toasted shredded coconut into the frosting for an irresistible finish.
How to Serve Tom Cruise Cake (White Chocolate Coconut Bundt Cake) Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishing this tropical delight, extra toasted shredded coconut is a no-brainer, adding both crunch and a heady aroma that will have everyone reaching for seconds. You could also sprinkle some finely grated white chocolate or even a dusting of powdered sugar to give the cake a delicate, snow-kissed look.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like pineapple slices or juicy mango cubes to amplify the tropical vibe. A small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes the ultimate indulgent sidekick, balancing the cake’s sweetness with creamy coolness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Tom Cruise Cake (White Chocolate Coconut Bundt Cake) Recipe into a stunning centerpiece by serving it on a decorative cake stand surrounded by tropical foliage or edible flowers. For a fun twist, cut the cake into mini Bundt-shaped cupcakes and frost each with coconut flakes for perfect individual servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your freshly baked Tom Cruise Cake, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, remaining moist and flavorful for easy snacking later on.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake to extend its life—just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warmed, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This enhances the ooey, gooey texture of the white chocolate and makes the coconut fragrance even more inviting.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream pudding instead of coconut cream pudding?
While regular cream pudding works in a pinch, using instant coconut cream pudding really boosts the cake’s tropical profile. It enhances both flavor and moisture in ways that a standard pudding won’t match.
Is there a substitute for sour cream if I’m lactose intolerant?
You can substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream to keep that tangy moisture without dairy. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to maintain the cake’s balance.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep an eye on texture since gluten-free flours vary, and consider adding a tablespoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it.
How do I toast shredded coconut without burning it?
Toast shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. It only takes a few minutes to turn golden brown, so watch closely to avoid burning and toss frequently for even coloring.
Can I use white chocolate chips instead of a white chocolate bar?
Yes, white chocolate chips are a convenient substitute and will melt into pockets of sweetness just as well. Just chop them roughly if they are too small so you still get that wonderful texture contrast.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Tom Cruise Cake (White Chocolate Coconut Bundt Cake) Recipe that makes it a standout in any dessert lineup. Its moist crumb, the dreamy white chocolate surprises, and that unmistakable coconut freshness create a totally irresistible treat. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy it brings to your table. Trust me, this cake will quickly become a beloved favorite you’ll want to bake again and again!
